Make the syrup: Bring the wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, orange zest and bay leaf to a simmer in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring; cook until reduced to 3/4 cup, about 15 minutes. Let cool completely. Discard the bay leaf.
Make the pastries: Whisk the flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup water, the egg, orange zest and juice and whisk until just combined. Transfer the batter to a plastic squeeze bottle.
Heat 1 1/2 inches vegetable oil in a shallow pot over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 380 degrees F. Squeeze the batter into the oil into 2-inch rounds; fry, turning once, until puffed and golden, 1 to 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Dust with confectioners' sugar and top with pomegranate seeds and the wine syrup.
Photograph by Anna Williams
Courtesy of Food Network Magazine